Critical need for 24-hour social work service for children at risk

Labour spokesperson on Children and Youth Affairs, Jan O’Sullivan TD, has welcomed Government plans to implement child welfare recommendations made by Dr Geoffrey Shannon in his Child Protection Audit.

Deputy O’Sullivan said:

“This is a welcome announcement from Minister Zappone that she is to put in place Dr Shannon’s recommendations; however it is critical that a country-wide 24-hour social work service is part of that implementation. 

“A review by Túsla as proposed is not the answer; we already have the data from Dr. Shannon’s report, and he made it crystal clear at the Oireachtas committee this morning that all children need this level of protection.

“I am calling for the implementation of this crucial recommendation.

“The other point strongly evident from Dr. Shannon’s Report and his evidence to the Committee, is that real communication and co-operation between Túsla and the Gardai and other agencies is crucial to ensure that children are best protected,  and that there is a comprehensive response to their needs.

“Dr Shannon’s report should serve as the blueprint for child protection measures in this country, but it is also important that the system is properly monitored to ensure the measures are implemented.”